HBO Renews ‘Game of Thrones’ For Season 2

Even though HBO’s medieval fantasy series Game of Thrones just premiered last Sunday, the cable network has already committed to bring George R. R. Martin’s second novel in the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series to the small screen with Game of Thrones season 2.

The novel, entitled “A Clash of Kings,” continues the epic tale of Westeros’ seven kingdoms and, foregoing any spoilers, should prove to be even more captivating than the series’ first season. But will viewers tune in?

Despite rave reviews from fans and critics of theGame of Thrones series premiere, the episode failed to find an audience amongst HBO’s 40+ million subscribers.

Combining the initial ratings with that of its encore performances, the total number of viewers who tuned into the Game of Thrones series totals 4.2 million. Add in the fact that Game of Thrones launched without True Blood serving as its promotional platform (something that Boardwalk Empire had), and all appears to be well in the continent of Westeros.

HBO president Michael Lombardo had this to say about Game of Thrones season 2 and its recent premiere:

“We are delighted by the way David Benioff and D.B. Weiss have brought George R.R. Martin’s amazing book series to the screen, and thrilled by the support of the media and our viewers. This is the continuation of an exciting creative partnership.”

Despite the need to add multiple qualifiers to the Game of Thrones series premiere ratings to make them appear adequate, there’s no doubt that HBO sees the potential in this series. With critics and fans singing its praise, it’s only a matter of time before Game of Thrones finds its audience – something that True Blood accomplished after garnering a mere 1.4 million viewers in its series premiere.

Until then, fans can rest easy, as Eddard Stark’s epic journey will continue.

BONUS: If you need help keeping the characters of GoT sorted out in your head, be sure to check out our very own Game of Thrones infographic.